Moscow Oblast Travel Guide

Explore the hidden gems and must-visit attractions of Moscow Oblast with our ultimate travel guide. Discover outdoor activities, culture, food, and more!


Introduction to Moscow Oblast

Moscow Oblast, also known as the Moscow Region, is situated in Central Russia and is the neighboring region of Moscow. The region stretches for over 47,000 square kilometers, making it the largest in Russia and more substantial than some European countries. Moscow Oblast boasts a perfect blend of ancient and modern culture, tranquil forests, stunning landscapes, and awe-inspiring architecture. This region is an excellent vacation destination for history buffs, foodies, nature lovers, photographers, and anyone looking to escape the chaos of city life.

List of Places to Visit in Moscow Oblast

Moscow Oblast is home to numerous tourist attractions ranging from historical monuments to natural wonders, cultural museums, and many more. Let’s explore some of the must-visit places in the region.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Moscow Kremlin

The Moscow Kremlin is a historic fortified complex located in the heart of Moscow. It serves as the official residence of the President of Russia and is also a popular tourist attraction. The Kremlin symbolizes Russian statehood and boasts a rich history of over 800 years.

Sergiev Posad

Sergiev Posad is a small Russian city located in the suburbs of Moscow. The city is home to the Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius Monastery, which is one of the most significant spiritual and cultural centers in Russia. The monastery features stunning architecture, including numerous churches, bell towers, and unique historical pieces such as works by Andrei Rublev.

Kolomna Kremlin

Kolomna Kremlin is a unique and picturesque fortified complex located in Kolomna city. The Kremlin was built in the 16th century and consists of eight towers and one of the oldest surviving cannon towers in Russia. The Kremlin offers visitors an opportunity to experience historical Russia, as well as enjoy scenic views of the nearby countryside.

Natural Attractions of Moscow Oblast: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Vodlozersky National Park

Located in the northern part of Moscow Oblast, Vodlozersky National Park is an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The park features numerous rivers, lakes, and islands, and is home to rare species, including lynx and wolverine. Visitors can enjoy boating, hiking, horseback riding, and fishing.

Elk Island National Park

Elk Island National Park is a vast forest park located in the eastern part of the region. The park is home to numerous animal species such as elk, bison, and deer. It is also home to various hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, and a ski resort, making it an excellent destination for outdoor activities.

Lake Pleshcheyevo

Lake Pleshcheyevo is the largest lake in Moscow Oblast, located near the ancient town of Pereslavl-Zalessky. The lake is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and hiking. Visitors will enjoy scenic views of the surrounding countryside.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Moscow Oblast

Moscow Oblast offers numerous hiking and biking routes that allow visitors to explore the region’s stunning natural landscapes and historical sites.

Tarkhankut-Kerch Route

This route offers cyclists a unique opportunity to explore the Crimean Peninsula’s scenic views and historical sites, including a visit to the ancient city of Kerch.

Kolomna - Dubna Cycle Route

The Kolomna-Dubna cycle route spans 240 kilometers and is an excellent way for cyclists to explore the region’s forests, rivers, and bridges.

Pereslavl-Zalessky - Yaroslavl Cycle Route

This 225-kilometer route brings cyclists through numerous historical cities and towns, including Pereslavl-Zalessky, Rostov, and Yaroslavl, offering beautiful views of the countryside.

Best Things to Do in Moscow Oblast: Activities and Tours

Moscow Oblast has a lot to offer its visitors, including various activities and tours to ensure that their trip is fun-filled and memorable.

Russian Traditional Crafts Master Class

Visitors can participate in a “Russian Traditional Crafts” master class offered at the Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve. The course provides a perfect opportunity for tourists to experience Russian-style handicrafts such as embroidery, wood carving, and painting.

Helicopter Tour Over Moscow Oblast

A helicopter tour offers a not-to-be-missed opportunity to take in the stunning views of Moscow Oblast’s diverse landscapes from above. The tour provides visitors with an excellent opportunity to see the region’s distinct architectural structures and natural wonders.

Medieval Cooking Classes at Kolomna Kremlin

Kolomna Kremlin offers its visitors a unique culinary experience, where they can learn how to prepare traditional Russian cuisine using medieval recipes. The tour allows visitors to enjoy dining in Russia’s historic atmosphere while learning about the area’s rich culinary traditions.

Week-Long Itinerary for Moscow Oblast

If you’re planning to spend a full week in Moscow Oblast, then this itinerary is for you.

Day Activity
1 Explore Moscow Kremlin
2 Visit Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius Monastery
3 Hike or bike in Elk Island National Park
4 Visit Kolomna Kremlin and take a cooking class
5 Take a helicopter tour over Moscow Oblast
6 Explore Vodlozersky National Park
7 Visit Lake Pleshcheyevo and Pereslavl-Zalessky City

Food and Drink Scene of Moscow Oblast

Moscow Oblast has a rich culinary heritage, influenced by the regions’ diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds. Visitors can look forward to trying some of the unique and traditional dishes and beverages that are native to the region.

Must-Try Dishes

Blini

Blini is a traditional Russian dish that resembles a pancake made from wheat or buckwheat flour. It is typically topped with various fillings such as cheese, mushrooms, caviar, or jam.

Shchi soup

Shchi soup is a traditional Russian dish that is made with sauerkraut, broth, and meat. The dish is typically served with sour cream and black bread.

Local Beverages

Vodka

Vodka is Russia’s traditional alcoholic beverage, and it is known worldwide for its high quality and unique taste. Tourists can try a variety of vodka brands, including the locally produced ones.

Kvas

Kvas is a traditional Russian non-alcoholic drink resembling beer and is made from fermented bread. The sweet and sour drink is highly refreshing, especially in the summer months.

Where to Stay in Moscow Oblast: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Moscow Oblast offers a wide range of accommodation options that cater to a variety of travelers, including budget-friendly hostels, elegant hotels, and charming guesthouses.

Hotel National

Located in the heart of Moscow, Hotel National is an elegant five-star hotel with luxurious rooms and suites. The hotel offers various amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and three gourmet restaurants.

Cherry Hostel

Cherry Hostel is a budget-friendly hostel located in Moscow city center. The hostel offers clean and comfortable rooms, a shared kitchen, and a cozy lounge area.

Rybolov Hotel

Rybolov Hotel is a charming guesthouse located outside of Moscow in the village of Kashino. The guesthouse offers comfortable rooms with a traditional Russian countryside atmosphere, as well as a fishing pond and outdoor barbecue area.

What to Buy in Moscow Oblast: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Moscow Oblast is a perfect destination for souvenir shopping, as the region offers a wide variety of unique and traditional products that tourists can take home to remember their trip. Some of the popular souvenirs include:

Matryoshka Dolls

Matryoshka Dolls are traditional Russian nesting dolls made from wood, with the largest doll being the mother, and smaller dolls placed inside, representing her children. The dolls are colorful and intricately painted, making them a popular souvenir choice.

Gzhel Porcelain

Gzhel porcelain is a distinctive Russian ceramic hand-painted with blue and white patterns. The porcelain is traditionally made in the village of Gzhel, located in the Moscow Oblast region.

Local Culture and Customs of Moscow Oblast

Russia has a unique cultural heritage, and tourists visiting Moscow Oblast will have an opportunity to experience some of the country’s customs and traditions. Some of the traditions and customs include:

  • Respect for elders and authority figures.
  • Hospitality is essential in Russian culture, and visitors can expect friendly and gracious welcomes.
  • It is customary to remove shoes when visiting someone’s home.
  • Visitors should dress formally when visiting religious places, also women should cover their heads.

Best Time to Visit Moscow Oblast

The best time to visit Moscow Oblast is between May and October, as the weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging between 10 and 25 degrees Celsius. However, the region is a year-round destination with unique winter activities such as skiing and ice fishing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Moscow Oblast

Do:

  • Respect local customs and culture
  • Dress appropriately for the weather and situation
  • Be friendly and courteous towards locals
  • Take the time to learn some basic Russian phrases

Don’t:

  • Photograph people without their permission
  • Talk loudly in public places or on public transportation
  • Make political or religious references

Safety and Health

Safety in Moscow Oblast

Moscow Oblast is generally a safe region to visit. However, tourists should exercise caution and take standard precautions such as not walking alone at night and keeping an eye on their belongings.

Health in Moscow Oblast

Visitors must have comprehensive international travel insurance to cover any medical emergencies. The availability and quality of medical services vary widely across the region.

Getting to Moscow Oblast: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Moscow Oblast

Sheremetyevo International Airport is the main airport in Moscow, and it is located around 26 kilometers from the city center. Other airports near Moscow Oblast include Vnukovo International Airport and Domodedovo International Airport.

Bus Stations Near Moscow Oblast

There are various bus stations and terminals in Moscow Oblast, connecting the region to other parts of Russia and neighboring countries. Some of the main terminals include Kurskiy Rail Terminal, Belorusskiy Rail Terminal, and Kiyevskiy Rail Terminal.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to Moscow Oblast by train, car, or taxi, depending on their preference.

How to Get Around in Moscow Oblast

Moscow Oblast offers various modes of transportation to get around the region, including buses, trains, taxis, and rental cars. The transportation system is efficient and affordable, making it easy to reach any destination within the region.

Where to Go Next from Moscow Oblast: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Moscow Oblast is a gateway to various cities and towns in Russia and neighboring countries. Some of the popular excursions and destinations include:

Suzdal

Suzdal is an ancient Russian town that boasts distinct architecture and ancient monuments. The town is famous for its churches, monasteries, and museums, offering tourists an opportunity to take a step back in time and experience Russia’s rich cultural heritage.

Kaluga

Kaluga, located around 170 kilometers southwest of Moscow, is a charming and historical city with a rich cultural heritage. Kaluga is famous for its museums, including the Tsiolkovsky State Museum of the History of Cosmonautics.

Conclusion

Moscow Oblast is a fascinating region that offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore Russia’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders. From the stunning outdoors to the historic architecture and unique food, there is something for everyone. A visit to Moscow Oblast is a journey worth taking to experience a lesser-known but equally captivating part of Russia.



    Moscow
    North Moscow Oblast
    West Moscow Oblast